THE Masham Sheep Fair consigned the dark days of the foot-and-mouth crisis to history over the weekend with a successful two-day event blessed with warm sunshine.

Hundreds of people made the trip to the traditional Yorkshire Dales market town for the event which mixes farming with family entertainment.

As well as the pens which fill the market square, there were demonstrations of shearing and lessons in how to spot different breeds.

But Masham's brewing heritage was also given due deference, with demonstrations and workshops led by staff from Theakstons and the Black Sheep brewery, once again in the ownership of the same family for the first time since the 1980s.

A barbecue helped to ensure the crowds were well fed and watered while entertainment included a traditional funfair and stalls selling home-made crafts and produce and even some early Christmas gifts.